How to Reach Leh Ladakh by Road, Train & Flight (2025 Updated Guide)

Admin

Administrator
Staff member
Ladakh is one of the most breathtaking travel destinations in India, famous for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and high-altitude passes. Whether you're a biker, a road trip enthusiast, or looking for a comfortable flight, this guide will help you plan the best route to reach Leh Ladakh in 2025.

1️⃣ Best Ways to Reach Leh Ladakh in 2025
With the new train route to Srinagar, reaching Leh Ladakh has become more accessible. Here’s a quick comparison of all available options:

Mode of TransportBest ForDurationApproximate Cost
Road (Manali-Leh Highway)Adventure lovers, bikers2 days₹5,000 – ₹15,000
Road (Srinagar-Leh Highway)Scenic road trip, safer than Manali route2 days₹5,000 – ₹12,000
✈️ Flight (Delhi to Leh)Fastest way, time-saving1.5 hours₹4,000 – ₹15,000
Train (Delhi to Srinagar + Road to Leh)Budget travelers, train lovers24+ hours₹2,500 – ₹7,000
Train (to Jammu + Road to Leh)Alternative for train + road travel36+ hours₹3,000 – ₹7,000

2️⃣ Reaching Leh Ladakh by Road (Manali & Srinagar Routes)
For adventure seekers, a road trip to Leh is an unforgettable experience. There are two major highways:

Route 1: Manali to Leh Highway (Most Popular)
Distance: 472 km
Time: ~2 days
Best Time to Travel: June – September
Route: Manali → Rohtang Pass → Keylong → Sarchu → Leh

✅ Why Choose This Route?
✔ Ideal for bikers & adventure lovers
✔ Stunning landscapes & high-altitude passes
❌ More challenging due to steep climbs & unpredictable weather

Route 2: Srinagar to Leh Highway (Scenic & Easier)
Distance: 434 km
Time: ~2 days
Best Time to Travel: May – October
Route: Srinagar → Sonamarg → Drass → Kargil → Leh

✅ Why Choose This Route?
Less altitude sickness (gradual ascent)
✔ Open earlier in the year than Manali-Leh
Passes through Kargil & Zoji La Pass (historical importance)

Pro Tip: Travel via Manali and return via Srinagar for the best experience!

3️⃣ Reaching Leh Ladakh by Train (New Delhi-Srinagar Train Route)
With the new Delhi to Srinagar train, reaching Leh Ladakh has become easier and cheaper for budget travelers.

Best Train Routes to Srinagar
Train NameFromDuration
Shri Shakti ExpressDelhi15-18 Hours
Vande Bharat Express (Upcoming)Delhi12-14 Hours
Jhelum ExpressMumbai28 Hours

From Srinagar, travelers can take a taxi or shared cab to Leh via the Srinagar-Leh Highway (434 km, ~2 days).

✅ Why Choose a Train?
Budget-friendly alternative
Smoother journey than buses
No hassle of long bus rides from Delhi

4️⃣ Reaching Leh Ladakh by Flight (Fastest & Easiest Option)
✈️ Direct Flights to Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport)
Leh’s airport is one of the highest commercial airports in the world. It’s well-connected to major cities:

Departure CityFlight DurationApproximate Cost
Delhi ✈️ Leh1.5 Hours₹4,000 – ₹12,000
Mumbai ✈️ Leh3.5 Hours (via Delhi)₹8,000 – ₹15,000
Bangalore ✈️ Leh5 Hours (via Delhi)₹9,000 – ₹16,000

✅ Why Choose a Flight to Leh?
✔ Best for short trips & time-saving
No risk of altitude sickness while traveling
❌ Limited baggage allowance (bikers may need to ship bikes separately)

Pro Tip: Window seats offer breathtaking Himalayan views!

5️⃣ Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh in 2025
  • June – September: Best for road trips (both highways open)
  • May – October: Best for flights (less snow, great sightseeing)
  • November – April: Not recommended (extreme winter, blocked roads)
Pro Tip: Avoid traveling in monsoon (July-August) due to landslides.

6️⃣ Essential Travel Tips for Leh Ladakh
✅ Acclimatize Properly – Spend 1-2 days in Leh before exploring higher altitudes.
✅ Carry Oxygen Cans & Medicines – Prevent altitude sickness (AMS).
✅ Keep Fuel & Food Reserves – Petrol pumps & eateries are scarce on highways.
✅ Download Offline MapsGoogle Maps may not work in remote areas.
✅ Carry Cash – ATMs are limited in Ladakh.

Conclusion: Best Way to Reach Leh Ladakh in 2025?
Road Trip: Best for adventure lovers (Manali or Srinagar route).
Train + Road: New Delhi-Srinagar train makes travel easier & cheaper!
✈️ Flight: Fastest & most comfortable option.

Have you been to Ladakh? Share your travel experiences below! If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
 
Last edited:
Back
Top